Crossing the Top Line

Pack Mystic #1

by Thora Woods

In the heart of the Big Easy, Victoria “Tori” Strauss has it all together—almost. As the poised and efficient social media manager for the beloved New Orleans Mystic hockey team, she's a seasoned pro at captivating the hearts of fans. But her own heart? That's a different story.

Six years ago, a chance encounter with the enigmatic alpha Spencer Black started with passion and instant chemistry, but ended in heartbreak when he left without a word to chase his dreams with the San Francisco Wardens. Now, he's been traded to his hometown team, and their paths are about to collide once more. Tori's anger simmers just beneath the surface as she's forced to confront the man who once shattered her world.

Determined to make Spencer regret his decision, Tori turns her attention to two other players, Oliver Astrauckas and Elijah Jokinson—both charismatic and enticing alphas in their own right. But as she dives into a whirlwind of secret relationships and heated encounters, Tori finds herself doing the one thing she vowed never to fall for a hockey player. Can she truly let go of the past and open her heart to new possibilities? And when the time comes, will she have the courage to choose between her dream career and the unexpected, passionate love that awaits her?

In this sizzling tale of love, second chances, and the ultimate choice, every goal, every play, and every stolen kiss could change the game forever.

Crossing The Top Line is the first book in the Pack Mystic series, starting as MMMF but with growth in the future. This book is intended for readers 18+ and contains mature subjects. Please see the author's note at the start for more information on specific subjects and themes depicted.

Genres: Omegaverse, Sports, Romance, Sports Romance, Hockey, Contemporary, Second Chance

406 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 28, 2023

About the author

Thora has been a lifelong dreamer and creator of stories. From acting out elaborate and daring rescues with her dolls as a child, to putting pen to paper and fingers to keys as an adult, she has honed her voice and craft through years of work and practice.

A romantic at heart, Thora fell in love with the romance genre through books like Lola and the Millionaires, The Devil's Syndicate series, and many more. Now she has taken the first steps toward sharing the stories in her heart with the world.

Reviews

[Ally Bateman · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wanted to love this book. Omegaverse, hockey romance, why-choose, what’s not to love. I will say that the hockey representation was pretty accurate. But the omegaverse element was all wrong. If someone read this without a strong understanding of the Omegaverse, they would have no idea about what was happening. The fact that packs are not a recognized and normal thing in this world was super weird. And why did Oli and Eli have to be closeted? That made no sense. And then Spenser was conveniently also Bi, but never had any interactions with Eli or Oli. And then the addition of the coach, who will obviously join the pack in a later novel. He felt like an unnecessary complication. And the way the story dealt with Tori’s heat and that her heat would make her want to do self harm? Wtf. That was super strange. Even how long the story took to tell us what actually happened between Spencer and Tori that made her hate him was drawn out for no reason. Even if it was just in their POV chapter and thinking about what happened, there was no advantage of keeping the reader thinking the worst. This could have been a good book as a stand-alone, but I think in trying to make it a series, that it left the ending feeling very unsatisfying. Not even a cliffhanger, but just knowing she wasn’t ready for a pack but knowing she will be eventually…

[Kara · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Do you know how much I’ve been looking forward to this? How many times I’ve imagined exactly how I’d fvck you?”🔥

The smut list is lonnnnnngg on this one 😌

What to Expect:
🦋 Omegaverse Romance
🦋 Reverse Harem/Poly
🦋 MMFMM
🦋 Hockey Players & Roommates
🦋 FMC is team Social Media Manager
🦋 Jealous Alphas
🦋 Mental Health Rep
🦋 Past Trauma & PTSD
🦋 They help her through her heat
🦋 Protective MMC’s
🦋 No one can disrespect her
🦋 Spicy History between 2 MCs
🦋 Old Team Rivalry

Hero rating: 4/5 ⭐️
Heroine rating: 4.5/5 ⭐️
S£xual tension rating: 4⭐️
Spicy scenes rating: 4.5⭐️
Spicy scenes frequency: 3.5⭐️
Plot rating: 4.5⭐️
*******************************
Overall rating: 4.75 ⭐️

As someone who’s been on antidepressants or anxiety medication for YEARS I can relate so hard to this FMC. I’ve never read anything that addressed the unique experiences that women face while taking these medications, so I loved that 🥹

For all the Omegaverse girlies, this one’s for you 👏🏻 this author also wrote Lilacs & Leather, which is in my top 3 all time favorites for this genre, right up there with Lola & the Millionaires 💎🌟

So when I saw she’d written another Omegaverse AND it was hockey?? I couldn’t run fast enough to Kindle Unlimited 🤣🏃🏼‍♀️

PLUS, we have some true MM in here and my personal opinion is that the best Reverse Harems need the MM relationship too 👏🏻

I suspect we’ll be seeing some age gap in the next book as well 👀

Smut Included:
🖤 Top Tier Dirty Talk
🖤 Brëêding K!nk
🖤 Praise
🖤 Consent
🖤 Multiple O’s 💦
🖤 Phone S*x
🖤 Sub Drop
🖤 Knøtting
🖤 Breath Play
🖤 MM ⚔️ & MFM Scenes
🖤 He’s førced to watch🥵
🖤 Begging
🖤 Degradatiøn
🖤 Exhibitiønism
🖤 Vøyerism
🖤 Impact Play
🖤 Dom/Sub Dynamics

🦋As always, read responsibly and check Trigger Warnings🦋

Happy reading sweet friends🔥

[QuinnReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Knot My Last Omegaverse

I haven't read many Omegaverse books, but that may change after this. The idea of knotting is just so... mmm... appealing. Add hockey to the mix, and it's a recipe for serious hotness!

The first intimate scene in this reverse harem is all about swords that cross. 🍆⚔️🍆 Yes!

I love that Oliver "Oli" Astrauckas and Elijah (Eli, Joker) Jokinson's established, albeit closeted, relationship gets to take center stage before the intimacies expand. I love seeing them together. They are a great team on and off the ice.

Victoria “Tori” Strauss has a past that includes some baggage with Spencer "Blackjack" Black. I like the bits of drama here and there that it causes. I love that when things turn sideways, Spencer is right there to help in any way he either can or she'll let him.

He's aged like fine wine. And I fucking hate him for it.
-- Tori Strauss

As I'm not hooked into the Omegaverse world as much as some, I'm still sorting out some of the nuances, like heat (I get the general gist as I do have pets) and the break she experienced six years prior. The speculative type things are more window dressing to the heart of this story about fluid relationships in an exclusive group that is open to so many possibilities. Reading and listening to the journey they take together and apart was worth every moment of my time. I love what they are building, and where they seem to be heading. All I can say is, "Put me in, Coach. I'm ready to play!" 😉 (Possibly foretelling?)

I read along with the audio book. The narrators, Phillipa Miller and James Amherst, are terrific. I love the accents and overall delivery.

The two narrators do have different cadences which led to me reducing my listening speed a little. It was tough finding the right balance initially. Once I did, I wanted time to stand still so I could focus entirely on them.

I do wish I had known that this was part of a trilogy before I started. I'm not disappointed exactly, but the series is incomplete at the time of this review, so I have to stretch it out. The character development was terrific, and I started to suspect that this wasn't a standalone about halfway through. I do look forward to the next chapter in their budding romance and growing polycule!

Story: 4.5 stars
Narration: 4.5 stars
Listening Speed: 1.5 to 1.7x

[Marcia Arguelles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thora woods!! You’re a queen!!
This is perfection incarnate and I’m so happy to be part of your ARC team!
This couldn’t have arrived at a better time! It’s been a while since I’ve inhaled a book and loved every single page!
Your characters are always so well described and so full of depth, it’s incredible!
Also love the slight crossover with your other series! Made me super happy!
Well done you! Have a cookie and a glass of wine, woman!

[Nerdy.Scientist.Reads || NERDY · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a sexy hockey omegaverse that I couldn’t put down once I started listening to it. The characters and banter were amazing and the storyline had me intrigued. An abandoned, damaged omega learning to open herself up again was the highlight of the book. Especially when faced with the alpha that hurt her. Can they make amends and let others into their hearts, or will the past keep them apart?

[QuinnReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Knot My Last Omegaverse

I haven't read many Omegaverse books, but that may change after this. The idea of knotting is just so... mmm... appealing. Add hockey to the mix, and it's a recipe for serious hotness!

The first intimate scene in this reverse harem is all about swords that cross. 🍆⚔️🍆 Yes!

I love that Oliver "Oli" Astrauckas and Elijah (Eli, Joker) Jokinson's established, albeit closeted, relationship gets to take center stage before the intimacies expand. I love seeing them together. They are a great team on and off the ice.

Victoria “Tori” Strauss has a past that includes some baggage with Spencer "Blackjack" Black. I like the bits of drama here and there that it causes. I love that when things turn sideways, Spencer is right there to help in any way he either can or she'll let him.

He's aged like fine wine. And I fucking hate him for it.
-- Tori Strauss

As I'm not hooked into the Omegaverse world as much as some, I'm still sorting out some of the nuances, like heat (I get the general gist as I do have pets) and the break she experienced six years prior. The speculative type things are more window dressing to the heart of this story about fluid relationships in an exclusive group that is open to so many possibilities. Reading and listening to the journey they take together and apart was worth every moment of my time. I love what they are building, and where they seem to be heading. All I can say is, "Put me in, Coach. I'm ready to play!" 😉 (Possibly foretelling?)

I read along with the audio book. The narrators, Phillipa Miller and James Amherst, are terrific. I love the accents and overall delivery.

The two narrators do have different cadences which led to me reducing my listening speed a little. It was tough finding the right balance initially. Once I did, I wanted time to stand still so I could focus entirely on them.

I do wish I had known that this was part of a trilogy before I started. I'm not disappointed exactly, but the series is incomplete at the time of this review, so I have to stretch it out. The character development was terrific, and I started to suspect that this wasn't a standalone about halfway through. I do look forward to the next chapter in their budding romance and growing polycule!

Story: 4.5 stars
Narration: 4.5 stars
Listening Speed: 1.5 to 1.7x

[Sommer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tw mentions of mental health issues and medication, fears of abandonment, intrusive thoughts, panic disorder, degradation kink

I seem to be in the minority here for 2 things, I really had issues with our main gal in her interactions with the guys and I don't know the rules of hockey well.
We get a lot of the actual games, how things work, the players and coaching and plays that are made in games. So if you're a sports fan or actually want some hockey in your hockey romance I highly recommend this.

Tori kind of reminds me of nesta, yeah I know bringing in acotar when not in the genre 🤷 but overall you either understand her and her issues or you think she's rude and don't like her. So far I think Tori needs some communication and therapy that she participates in not just management of an incident we get a foreshadowing of at the start of the novel.

The plot and spice is balanced for what it's worth, though I'm not necessarily a degradation girl and there's some self feelings of shame that the characters will work through in the next book hopefully.

This is slow building with the actual romance so it's cute and has some lighthearted moments. There's some possible hints that the coach will be added into the group and I'm curious how that will go.

[Chloë · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you for my first 5* read of 2024. Now I just need to get my hands on a physical copy, pretty please!

This book was amazingly enjoyable! I love the characters and the raw honesty about their feelings and thought processes. It was also nice to see kinks that are normally skipped over be included. The hints for future onboarders to the harem are mighty tempting, too. I can't wait to see what's in store for Tori and the boys next.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Girl

Tori…Tori…Tori…what is going through that pretty little head of yours. Something tells me she is going to destroy those boys…then realize what a colossal idiot she is.

[Mandy Sawyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has pretty much everything covered. MM/MMF/MMMF/MF there’s so much diversity! There’s also the Alpha/Omega thrown in there as well. A brilliant performance.
#pfp

[Michaela K · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️ 2.75
🌶️ 2.75

[Megan U · Rating 2 out of 5]

I didn’t realize this was an omegaverse book at first and was just annoyed that the author kept referring to people as alpha or beta. Once I finally realized, I had to google some elements of OV because I’ve never read one and nothing was described in the book. Plot was slow, took ages to find out why she hated Spencer and ended on a cliffhanger. This could’ve easily been finished in 400 pages with more spicy scenes. Will not waste my time on the next one.

[Raven9308]

I have always enjoyed this author's stories and audiobooks and this was no different. I was excited to see they wrote an omegaverse hockey RH/poly and I am already in love with these characters and cannot wait for book 2 to get onto audiobook (yes I know book 1 just released on audio but I am neeeeedy hahaha).

I'll first talk about the narration. I enjoyed both narrators, I thought they did a good job keeping me immersed in the story and capturing what the author was trying to do/convey throughout the story. I have listened to the male narrator before and I enjoyed him and still do. I think he did a good job with the different personalities he had to focus on. I haven't heard this female narrator before but she got my attention! I will be checking out more from her, she did a good job especially dealing with Tori's medicine and emotional trauma. I thought the spicy scenes were done well too, as well as the vulnerable/swoonworthy moments, both narrators' perspective was spot on. I think for me the only critique I would have is the accents changed throughout the audiobook and sometimes between the narrators they weren't clean (sometimes an accent kept going when a different character was talking who didn't have that same accent). Things that should have been caught during editing/proofing but were missed. It wasn't enough to downgrade this to a 4 stars overall but did knock me out of the story a couple times trying to figure out who was talking/getting confused with dialogue (like Spencer's accent continuing on when with was Eli or Oliver for example). Besides that, fantastic job!

For the story, I am extremely invested and need to know what she is going to do next. This could go either way. Not going to spoil anything but I am hoping she puts them first/lets them figure things out after everything that happened. I thought Eli was hilarious but also one of the most sensitive/vulnerable. Oliver was such a boy next door and then you get him to sexy times and HE TAKES HIS GLOVES OFF. Like I need a fan or a cold shower after his surprise scenes hahaha. I loved the date though! And Spencer has had to get over a lot of things with Tori and I am hoping they can continue that in the future book(s). I think he is probably one of my favorites, I liked how he fits in with the pack and their dynamics. I love how he was ready to take on anyone who hurts his friends/roomies/Tori. He also opened up with what happened on his old team and my heart got so sad for him.

I also need more of the coach because there is definitely something there and I cannot wait to see how that goes haha. The 3 guys have no idea and Tori is totally in denial after things almost happened. I am surprised he didn't check up on her when she was out sick, after they connected on the last trip and hung out when everyone left. I feel like he is gonna end up being one of my favorites, but need book 2 on audio to find out!

Tori is a strong omega and FMC but she had some trauma that really screwed her up and I hope we get to see more of her healing in the future books and more of the things I love about OV romances. We got to see a little bit of the heat, smells, nesting, but I definitely want more in book 2. This one more focused on the hockey part and establishing this group dynamic with the 3 roomies and possibly having a poly relationship, which is sooooo yummy haha. Can't wait for book 2!

🎧 Audiobook Obsession Reviewer - Flock Team 🎧

[Emmi (bookish_redpanda) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Format: 🎧 Audiobook 🎧 (ALC)
Performed by: James Amherst and Phillipa Miller
Style: dual
Production: Pink Flamingo Productions
Check CWs before listening

This was a fun listen, and definitely one that kept my interest even when I wasn't able to listen.

I enjoyed the way that we clearly knew there was a history between Victoria and Spencer, one of the MMCs, but it took time to uncover just what happened. I also really liked that all our MMCs - and one character I have hopes for, knowing this is book one of a series - are all very distinct in characterisation, and bringing something to the plate in terms of dynamics.

There are moments that certainly deserve the CWs (mentioned at the start of the audio) - the depiction of MH struggles within this book is written/performed with care but remember to look after your own health as you listen. It's oddly refreshing (not sure if that's the best term to use but hey) that we have a different take on mental health in an OV world, and how Victoria has adapted her life to what had occurred in the past.

One thing I must say, there were multiple times where this felt like the author forgot this is an OV book. To me, it's almost as if they wanted to join the hockey romance trend but didn't want to step out of the safety of their previous OV publications.

Another thought to point out is that we have an established MM relationship - one which is referenced so frequently in the narrative - but we only have one singular spicy scene between Oliver and Elijah , and only very brief interactions outside of it. I understand that they're not out to anyone, but you'd think there would be a little more. The other thing is that Spencer and Victoria's bisexuality is thrown into the storyline, but again, it's almost throwaway. Yes, we get Spencer and his realisation after the events of the hurricane, but we could have had hints dropped through the earlier chapters. As for Victoria, her mention was so late in the book, again in a very throwaway method, that it almost feels like the author threw it in to be "on trend".

I really enjoyed the performance that Amherst and Miller brought to the table. Regardless of who's POV we were in, or who was speaking, Amherst gave distinct definition to each MMC, making the narrative easy to follow. I also really enjoyed his accent work. Miller brought Victoria to life wonderfully, delivering the emotion where needed, whilst keeping that strong, confident air about her. I loved the way you could hear her soften when needed. This was my first listen from either narrator, and I will definitely be keeping both on my radar going forward.

Surprisingly, I didn't mind the cliffhanger at the end of the story, as I found myself emotionally invested in what was going to happen ongoing. Will I rush to get onto book two? Maybe not straight away, as I feel this is a longer series still, and I don't want to face myself with another cliffhanger, but this was certainly a fun listen.

Thank you to the author and Pink Flamingo for the ALC opportunity. These are my honest thoughts that I have provided voluntarily.

[Angel - Angel Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an earc of Crossing the Top Line by Thora Woods in exchange for an honest review. This has in no way influenced my thoughts and feelings about the book.

I discovered Thora Woods last year and fell in love with her Pack St Clair series so when I heard not only was she writing another Omegaverse series, but a hockey one. I knew I was in. One of my favourite things about Thora's books is how easy they are to read. Nothing much happens but it's more about the characters and how they grow throughout the book and series. It's a well-thought-out, slow-paced novel that fits these characters and the world so well.

I love Omegaverse and Thora Woods does something with it that makes it quaint and sexy all at the same time. The best way I can explain this book is soft. It's like being wrapped up and cared for. And yes it's smutty and sexy but it's a feel-good kinda read. Well at the end of the series. Maybe.

Victoria, "Tori" was just an easy fmc, I liked getting to know her and how her relationship grew more with the men and the team, we got to know her even more. We found out some really heartbreaking things about Tori towards the end of the novel and I really hope that this is explored more in the next books.

Spencer Black oh man do I just want to hug him. I understand why Tori was upset and heartbroken but Spencer is trying to be the bigger man here and it's breaking me. He is doing what is what he was supposed to do now, but it is late. Hopefully, we get to see more of Tori and Spencer and how they heal one another.

Oliver Astrauckas, you dirty man. He is the quiet type but man does he have a mouth. I loved how protective he was of not only Tori but Eli, Spencer and the rest of the team really. I loved how he let Tori come to him at her own pace and just take it all in.

And then we have Elijah Jokinson. Whenever he was on the page, I was smiling or laughing and that just made me smile even more. He is just a big human puppy. And he pushed them all. Just enough for everyone to still be comfortable but also give them a little nudge.

Overall, I loved reading Crossing the Top Line. It's a fantastic start to the series and I am very intrigued to see where it's going to go. Especially with that ending. I can see the potential of where the romance can go and who may be added to this little group. But they just have to survive everything that is thrown at them first. This is a also great omegaverse to start with if you are new to it.

[HeadCanonHeadCase · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you like hockey romance but are on the fence about dipping your toe into the omegaverse, this is the book for you. You won't regret a thing. Crossing the Top Line is Why Choose Hockey Romance perfection. I can't wait to see where this series goes.

Tori loves her job as the social media manager for the New Orleans Mystics. She's good at what she does and might be in line for a promotion. But changes for the team might impact more than just her day job. Spencer, Oliver, and Elijah join the Mystics and these three roommates have chemistry on and off the ice. Plus there is a new coach, Logan. All four men catch her eye and have Tori questioning her commitment not to get involved with hockey players.

I loved this book. Let me sell you on a few of the tropes:
-Second Chance
-Insta-love
-He falls first (x3)
-Sexy Alphas
-Slow Burn with MMMF on the horizon (possibly MMMFM?)
-Forced Proximity

Crossing the Top Line was perfectly paced and so much fun. The plot and progression of the story made it impossible to put down. I really enjoyed that Spencer, Oliver, and Elijah all had their moment to shine both in a professional context and one-on-one with Tori. I know it's why choose so I don't have to pick a favorite, but I definitely did. Oliver. Can I call dibs on him? Please?
 
There was so much to love about this book. But there were three that really stood out to me. First, Tori is a daddy's girl. There are so many omegaverse books where the parents are not supportive so it was so refreshing to see a) a healthy father/daughter relationship and b) her dad validate her work. Second, I really enjoyed that there was not already an established pack. It was so much fun to watch Oliver and Elijah slowly pull in Tori and Spencer as Spencer worked to regain Tori's trust. And third, the cliffhanger was not tragic. Yes, there was one, and I was left gasping, but it did not gut me. Instead, it perfectly set up the next book.

[Jennifer G · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tori grew up in the hockey world and now manages the social media account for an NHL team, the New Orleans Mystics. Even as an Omega she's earned the love of the fans and the loyalty of the team. However, the last few years have seen the team fall on hard times and the fan numbers are low. This is a year of change - new coach, new stars. Tori is determined to get fan support strong again. She doesn't have time for distractions and she doesn't date hockey players. But this new team seems as if it has been built to test her. The Alpha responsible for her heartache and emotional break has joined the team. Plus, two players being called up make it clear they want Tori as theirs. Then there's the new coach. Tori finds herself breaking her own rules for the first time.

I enjoyed this book despite finding it problematic at times. There was no Omegaverse world-building despite it having several unusual details that set it apart from the typical Omegaverse. Packs don't seem to be normal. Oli and Eli were closeted, although there was another player who was in an open same-sex marriage. Why? Tori's interrupted heat caused BH issues, including intrusive thoughts and self-harming tendencies. What is this? Spencer and Tori are both conveniently also bi but it's never mentioned until the end, and Spencer even seemed confused with his reactions towards his housemate's bodies. All of this needed better fleshing out. Also, the name Mystic. There is a Mobile Mystick minor league hockey team, plus a very popular WNBA team with the name. Could have been better thought out.

I loved the characters and most of their interactions with Tori's mini-heat being the exception. I liked the emotional bonds and friendships. It was a fun, easy read. I do think it could have been even better if it had been a standalone. It could have been edited down, and the pacing improved and made complete.

[Laurel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thora Woods always does wonderful world building and this is why I jumped at the opportunity to read her newest hockey omegaverse twist! With Thora everything is written with a purpose, so, it takes a moment for everything to come together because all the details are needed. It is a slow read at first, but it is because of this reason. The backstories are crucial to make you fall in love with all the characters.
It is written from multiple POV's which I love because I like knowing how everyone is feeling, and their inner monologs make it that much greater. You have Tori, or fmc, and she is easy to like and root for. Then you have Spencer, Elijah, and Oliver who all play hockey. If you like the concepts of different types of alphas, lovely beta's, and a fierce omega you will love all the characters (and side characters) that makes this book so wonderful. This is a hockey omegaverse, you do not have to understand either of these concepts to enjoy this book. I cannot wait to see what happens next in this delightful series because it keeps you flipping the next page. So, get ready to read this gem (yes, there is spice...not sure why I did not mention that! However, the spice is second to the story but has great tension building throughout.)
I got this book to leave my honest review, but did not want to give anything away. If you are looking for a Pack Saint Clair feel, this is not it, but something new and different. One that is centered around history and love with of course hockey! This is a book you won't regret reading.

[Annie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book had a lot of potential I think but confused me at a few points.

1 - most omegaverse books have packs as a norm. It varies on if any of the characters are bisexual but its pretty normal. This book felt like the omega thing was kind of just in the background and I don't think it wove into the plotline well. I think there still could have been some hiding of the relationships as they're on a team together or maybe its not as common to be bisexual in a pack but I feel like a poly relationship should not be as a point of conflict in the book if you are setting it up in this world.

2 - the incident between Tori and Spencer was confusing. It was alluded to at different points and then when we learned more it was kind of addressed but not really? He did something to her that caused her panic attacks, trauma, and 6+ years of powerful drugs to supress her heats and it wasn't really fully addressed and then one "heat" and things are a little weird but okay? I feel like this could've been better by them having more time to talk about it and/or having what he did not have as severe of repercussions.

3 - this book was over 400 pages and is only part one and I still feel like I don't know a lot about everyones dynamic? I wish more was put into showing us more of Oli & Eli and their relationship and also hinting more at their interest in Spencer? He comes in as a fourth at the end really abruptly and this I'm assuming will be more in the second part but I wish there was more there.

[Shy Gawerecki · Rating 4 out of 5]

Audiobook Review:

I found this to be a good series starter. I’m a big fan of OV and RH type stories and this one fit the bill for things I enjoy about them. All the characters that made up the relationship so far have very distinct, different personalities and I liked that they each brought a different dynamic to things. We had the fun loving, light hearted one. The stoic protector. The charmer who also brought a second chance feel to things. And let’s not forget the intelligent, complicated woman who connects them all. I also have to wonder if there might not be at least one more yet to come. I found myself liking all the characters we got to know so far even if I liked some more than others at different moments. Once the story was done, it had me looking forward to the next book coming out, despite the cliffhanger. Normally I’m not a fan of them, but this one was ok. As far as the listening experience, the narrators were pretty good and I didn’t really have any complaints about them, but there were some issues with the audio. Sentences kept repeating randomly throughout the story and that kind of took me out of the moment when it would happen. But despite that, I won’t hesitate to check out the next book once it’s available on audio.
TheFlockVIPReviewTeam

[PelicanFreak · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m not big into sports romance, and I could take or leave hockey, but if Thora Woods wrote it, I’m reading it. That said, I’m glad for that little personal policy, as this was a fun world to get lost in.

Written in alternating, first-person POVs, the reader is treated to all the major players’ internal dialogue, intentions, etc.—I always find this style to be fun.


🏒 Sports romance.
Ω A/B/O dynamics in an otherwise ‘contemporary’ setting.
🏒Set in New Orleans.
Ω Heroine actively recovering from trauma.
🏒Mate bites.
Ω Knotting.
🏒Angst … lots of angst.
Ω M/M.
🏒Second chance at love … for multiple ‘pairs’.
Ω Slow burn.
🏒Workplace romance.
Ω Lots of hockey action, including f!ghting.
🏒PR & marketing.
Ω Kn0tting.
🏒Celeb life.


Overall:
Great writing, likeable characters, just enough drama, lots of steamy scenes, and lots of sports talk.

3.5 stars.


🎧 Audio:
Absolutely flawless production with excellent narrators. There are 2 of them, but they make this sound like a full-cast production. ALL the stars on this front. 🦩

[Hollyanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Crossing the Top Line is the first book in the Pack Mystic series. This book is about Tori, Spencer, Oliver, and Elijah and is told from all of their points of view. This is why choose Hockey Omegaverse. I believe this is the first Omegaverse series I've listened to, and I enjoyed it.

Tori and Spencer had a whirlwind relationship six years ago, but Spencer left her brokenhearted when he left to pursue his hockey career. Now he's back in his hometown on the hockey team and Tori is part of the hockey team social media coordinator. Spencer lives with Elijah and Oliver and they are both into each other, but also start to have feelings for Tori.

The relationships between all the characters grew and some of them bonded more than others in this book. What happens with Tori and Spencer after their past? What happens between Oliver, Elijah, and Tori?

I enjoyed it, and am curious to see what happens next in this series. I'm not sure if I'm really into Omegaverse, but I'd give the next book a chance.

[Samantha · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m a fan of Thora Woods. With that said, this book left me with a bad taste in my mouth. I absolutely hated the dynamics between Tori and the guys. While I understand she is dealing with trauma that’s not an excuse to be cruel. I really hated the scene when she goes into heat and something happens and I haven’t been able to wipe that from my mind while the act that was perpetrated is hiding behind a kink. No. The entire scene was mean and then it became uncomfortable and it kinda lost me. Then when I thought progress was being made and I have to trust the process, the ending happens and I’m back to ugh.

The audiobook has some glitches like scenes repeating before moving forward this happened twice. I am not a fan of the male narrator he made the guys sound like morons. The female narrator is fantastic and I preferred when she was doing the male voices. I’m sure this didn’t help with the vibes of the book. If book 2 comes out in audio I will listen just to see if things even out. I think I enjoyed Tori and Logan best. I felt their attraction more than the other guys.

[Booksfordays40 · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this first book, we settle in with who Tori is, and puzzle out what happened between her and Spencer all those years ago… we’re introduced to Oliver and Elijah, who together with Spencer, move up to the Mystic to make a pretty impressive line up. We get to see in each other’s head with the multiple POV’s, and there were times I wish that Spencer was able to communicate better with Tori about what was going on in his head… and that she would listen… but this book is all about breaking down walls that were built, allowing first and second chances, and understanding what happened all those years ago as well… (we don’t learn what happened immediately as well..) Since this is the first book, we’re left with a lot of questions, and no resolution yet…. TW does a great job of getting us invested in her characters, which will bring us back for more!! Can’t wait to see where this story leads!

[WhatJennahReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an epic start to a new hockey x omegaverse series! This book does a really good job of explaining hockey within the story that even those who aren't familiar with the sport can understand and enjoy.

Absolutely loved the witty banter between each of the characters, especially Eli & Tori and Oli & Tori. Spencer was an interesting character to see development from. He goes from a hot-shot star hockey player to a jealous ex-lover, then to a lost and confused Alpha.

While I felt like this was a generally slow-burn romance - there were some spicy scenes within the book. Especially the last couple of chapters. However, this story is far from having a fully developed harem. I'm still not sure if a certain someone will be included or not.

Overall, loved the story and cannot wait to continue with the series!!

Thank you to Thora Woods for the advanced copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Erica · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was obsessed with this story and these characters from the beginning. I love all of Thora’s characters but they have a soft spot for me. I loved the character dynamics between all of them and the instant sexual tension that kept me wanting more. Tori is a fiesty, strong and witty MFC who is a perfect match but makes them work for it. The MMCs all have great depth to their characters and are all alphas who know what they want. The witty banter broke up the tension and I laughed out loud quite a few times at their antics. This story has a lot of action on the ice and I felt like I was there at the games which I loved. The spice was yummy but again.. she knows how to write some seriously spicy scenes 🔥. I can’t wait to see where these characters go from here, this one did end on a bit of a cliffie. I definitely recommend to all the hockey romance and OV romance lovers out there.. this is the perfect combo of the two and to anyone who enjoys a great story and some delicious spice. 😉

[Rachel · Rating 2 out of 5]

I stopped at 61%. The author is obviously very talented as the book itself is very well written. I just found the pace to be so slow. There was hardly any progress and I was more than halfway over with the book. I also didn’t realize until after I started that this was a series and I tend to not like series when it’s a romance.

I’m actually shocked that I didn’t like this more because it’s gotten a lot of good reviews and I found it on BookTok but I just couldn’t. I gave it a college try lol.

One thing that I found extremely frustrating is that this is supposed to be a shifter story where they’re wolves I guess because they talk about alpha, omega, and betas, but there’s no shifting. If you’re gonna have a wolf shifter story they need to shift at least once. I was 61% in and they just talked about about alpha energy and hormones, but there was no actual shifting, which doesn’t make sense for a shifter novel.

To say I was disappointed in this read is an understatement.

[J · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 1 in Woods' new series Pack Mystic. An Omega verse romance that while that is not generally my go to, this book was certainly captivating both with its main characters and storyline. The dual narration did wonders to bring all the characters to life. A why choose, reverse harem type romance read that covers a lot of steamy ground and add to that some hockey?!? yes and please! Tori is the media manager for the New Orleans Mystics and loves her job, but changes are brewing for her and the team. Spencer, Oliver, and Elijah join the Mystics and these three are roommates and more. Great chemistry on and off the ice and then add to that a new coach in Logan. A great read that has all the sweet and spice as well as a bit of a cliffhanger that will have you excited (like me) for more!

This book was given to me for free at my request and I voluntarily provided this review.
*this review is based on the audio version of this read.

[Isabel · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had to knock down a star for the following reasons:
The book was loooong for no reason. We probably could've finished up at 300 pages and gotten the point across.
Other than that, I enjoyed the story. This is definitely a slow burn. We get one single MM scene, which i found odd since Eli and Oliver were like together together. I haven't read another of "Omegaverse" novels, so there were some terms I wasn't familiar with. But the story was pretty solid. I enjoyed her easy banter with Eli and her lunch dates with Oliver. I felt like Spencer was kind of just there... and him being revealed as Bi at the end probably means we're going to get some MMM scenes in the next book.
I'm also calling Coach to join our little pack. Which I am here for, I loved Tori's tension with him.
Also I have a weird fixation with the whole "knott" thing since I read Bride, and I loved that we had 3 int his book lol

[Rebekah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Decent Start, but Lacked Clarity and Ended on a Cliffhanger

This book was decent overall — the writing flowed well, the hockey backdrop was fun, and I didn’t run into any of the timeline or continuity issues that usually pull me out of a story. The pacing was steady, and the setup had promise.

That said, by about 60% in, I still wasn’t sure who the actual love interests were meant to be. Tori has moments with two players, there’s the unresolved second-chance thread with Spencer, and hints of a spark with yet another alpha. Instead of building romantic tension, it left me more confused than intrigued about where the story was headed.

And the ending… it’s a cliffhanger. For me, that was a big letdown. I much prefer my books to end with a full HEA, so I wouldn’t have picked this up if I’d known it wouldn’t wrap up in one volume.

Proceed with caution if you don’t like cliffhangers. On its own, this book felt incomplete.